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The Categories & Criteria

Information Architecture:
Does the game’s content make it easier to play?

• Each object in the game has a clear purpose and use.
• The design helps players know how to use objects and simplifies choices.
• The game limits content to avoid overwhelming players.
• The game uses examples to show how objects are used.
• Elements are repeated in the appropriate context to aid the player.
• Information is presented in multiple ways to suit different players.
• Design uses grouping to help players navigate elements.
• The layout reinforces how components should be used.
• Game elements follow familiar patterns and best practices.
• Labels on game elements are helpful and relevant.

Rulebook:
Does the rulebook effectively teach and support gameplay?

• The rulebook clearly describes the game world.
• Key points are repeated when needed.
• Content is consistently labeled and structured.
• The rulebook uses examples.
• The book avoids FAQs.
• The tone, voice, and style are consistent.
• There are no spelling or grammar mistakes.
• All necessary sections (e.g., setup, winning conditions) are present.
• The book is clear and easy to understand.
• There are reference sections to help during play.

Mechanics:
Do the mechanics work smoothly and support the game’s theme?

• The mechanics reinforce the game’s theme.
• The mechanics are simple to learn and understand.
• Each mechanic has a clear purpose.
• The mechanics give players control and choices.
• Mechanics encourage competition, cooperation, and interaction.
• Unpredictable mechanics are used appropriately.
• Mechanics that players naturally want to avoid are effectively used.
• The game uses scarcity well.
• Mechanics create a sense of ownership or creation.
• The mechanics give players a sense of achievement.

Game Features:
Do the game’s elements create a positive experience?

• The core mechanics are fun, simple, and have depth.
• Short and long-term goals overlap meaningfully.
• Players make meaningful choices each turn.
• Players can impact random events in meaningful ways.
• Turns increase in impact as the game progresses.
• Opponents’ turns affect other players.
• The game reduces complexity with multi-use components.
• There are exciting moments or powerful turns.
• The game ends, leaving players wanting more.
• The game has something unique or remarkable.

Usability:
Are the game’s systems intuitive and easy to use?

• The design include elements to remind players of how systems work.
• The game doesn’t rely too much on memory.
• Language and functions are familiar to players.
• Game elements use clear affordances (hints about use).
• Optional steps are clearly marked.
• Actions are consistent across the game.
• Items are grouped logically, with clear headings.
• Related elements are connected seamlessly.
• The design helps players avoid mistakes.
• The components make the game satisfying to play.

Understandable:
Is it easy to understand how to play the game?

• Tasks are broken down to feel simple.
• Progress is clearly communicated.
• Prompts suggest actions in consistent ways.
• Elements appear in the same locations for consistency.
• Labels, elements, and actions are consistent throughout the game.
• Actions are named consistently across all prompts in the game.
• Prompts are short and clear.
• The game doesn’t rely on memory for exceptions.
• The game supports repeated learning.
• Common language is used, avoiding jargon.

Iconography:
Does the game effectively use icons?

• Icons’ meanings are easy to figure out.
• Icons are visually clear and easy to read.
• Icons are kept as simple as possible.
• Icons represent familiar or frequently needed ideas.
• Icons are well-aligned and balanced visually.
• Icons are consistent in design and look unified.
• Icons fit the theme and don’t look out of place.
• Universal icons are used where possible.
• Conflicting icons are avoided.
• Unique icons are only used when necessary.

Aesthetics:
Is the visual style appealing and appropriate?

• The game’s visuals appeal to the target audience.
• Images are relevant and professional.
• The visual style matches the game’s theme and brand.
• Visual elements are unified and harmonious.
• The game uses visual hierarchy well.
• The visual style provides clear guidance to players.
• The game’s design feels cohesive and unified.
• White space is used effectively.
• Color coding is consistent.
• The game makes good use of typographic principles.

Accessible:
Is the game accessible to all players?

• The colors are accessible for colorblind players.
• The game is playable for people with visual impairments.
• It is accessible to people of all social and economic backgrounds.
• Large, clear, and high-contrast fonts make the text easy to read.
• Game pieces are easy to handle and tell apart.
• The game minimizes memory load.
• Simple and straightforward language is used.
• The game works for players with different communication abilities.
• Text alternatives are offered when possible.
• The game supports hearing impairments with alternate cues.

Form Factor:
Does the game addresses human factors effectively?

• Components are designed to prevent errors.
• Players can easily reach and see what they need.
• The game’s footprint allows all players to access all actions needed.
• The components match how players think the game works.
• The physical form reinforces the rules.
• The components fit their context of use.
• Physical components are easy to interact with.
• Components have internal consistency.
• Components have external consistency.
• The physical form guides players.